Pepato is a Pecorino (Italian sheep's milk) cheese studded with whole black peppercorns. A Sicilian specialty, the official name of this cheese is actually Pecorino Siciliana DOP.
Pepato is a cheese whose history coincides with periods of blood and tears. Sicily, a crossroads between European, Mediterranean and African civilizations, has seen its fair share of turmoil. This cheese has survived over the centuries, despite long periods of drought that made it difficult to find sufficient grazing pastures, forcing the people of Sicily to choose between the production of wheat and dairy.
An aged, hard pecorino combined with whole black peppercorns, Pepato is matured for a minimum of 4 months to perfection. Like many of the world's classic cheeses, Pepato originated as a staple of the peasant's diet. Today, it is enjoyed by all people - rich and poor. With its characteristic spicy taste, Pepato is a tasty table cheese that is also perfect for grating. Grate it over soups, salads, and pastas. It is an exciting alternative to the more common pecorino!